How to Be Background Investigator - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jan 7, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

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The increasing use of technology in our lives has had a dramatic effect on the way background investigators do their jobs. With the advent of digital databases, investigators can quickly and easily access records, such as criminal backgrounds, credit histories, and driving records, that used to be difficult to obtain. This allows investigators to perform more thorough background checks in a fraction of the time taken in the past.

In addition, the rise of social media has allowed investigators to collect more detailed information about potential employees or partners, such as online posts, hobbies and interests, and connections with other individuals. All this information provides a comprehensive overview of the individual in question, allowing background investigators to complete their tasks more efficiently and accurately than ever before.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. Most background investigator positions require a bachelor's degree in a field such as criminal justice, sociology, or psychology. In addition, some employers may prefer candidates with a master's degree in a related field.
Gain Relevant Work Experience. Gain relevant work experience by working in law enforcement, the legal system, or security. This experience can help you develop the skills necessary to become a successful background investigator.
Complete a Background Investigation Course. Many employers require prospective background investigators to complete a background investigation course that covers topics such as interviewing techniques and investigative methods.
Obtain Certification. Obtain certification from an organization such as the National Association of Professional Background Screeners (NAPBS). This certification can help you stand out from other applicants and increase your chances of being hired by an employer.
Apply for Open Positions. Once you have obtained the necessary qualifications and certifications, you can apply for open positions as a background investigator. Many employers post open positions on job boards or on their own websites.

The ability to be a successful background investigator is dependent on having a set of skills and competencies. Good communication and interviewing skills are essential, as they enable an investigator to ask the right questions in order to uncover important information. The ability to analyze data, interpret results and draw conclusions is key to successfully conducting in-depth investigations.

investigators need to have an eye for detail and be able to think critically in order to obtain reliable evidence. Finally, a background investigator must be well versed in relevant laws and regulations in order to stay within the limits of the law during their investigations. Possessing these skills and competencies is essential for effective background investigation work, and without them a successful outcome can be difficult to achieve.

You may want to check Financial Crimes Investigator, Investigative Consultant, and Medical Investigator for alternative.

Job Description

Conduct background investigations for potential hires.
Utilize public records and other electronic databases to search for information on individuals.
Contact employers, schools, and other organizations to verify the accuracy of the information collected.
Analyze information collected to determine if the individual meets the required criteria for the position.
Prepare detailed reports of investigations and submit them to the designated personnel.
Follow up with any additional research as needed.
Track and maintain records of all investigations conducted.
Remain up-to-date on federal, state, and local regulations regarding background checks.
Maintain strict confidentiality of information collected during investigations.
Assist with other investigation and research activities as requested.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Attention to detail
Excellent communication skills
Analytical and problem-solving skills
Thoroughness and accuracy
Ability to work independently
Interpersonal skills
Strong research and investigative skills
Report writing
Flexibility and adaptability
Computer literacy
Knowledge of relevant laws and regulations
Discretion and confidentiality

The ability to conduct thorough research is an essential skill for any background investigator. By having the ability to dig deep into an individual's past, background investigators can uncover any relevant information that may be necessary when making a decision. This research can involve looking through court documents, public records, and interviewing witnesses and former employers.

having the ability to interpret data and draw meaningful conclusions is key to understanding the full scope of a person's background. With these skills, background investigators can make informed decisions that are in the best interest of everyone involved.

Investigative Specialist, Insurance Fraud Investigator, and Financial Investigator are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in conducting background investigations?
How comfortabke are you working with sensitive information?
Describe a particularly difficult background investigation you conducted and how you overcame any challenges.
What methods do you use to verify information obtained during background investigations?
Describe your approach to completing detailed reports on background investigations.
What techniques do you use to ensure accuracy and consistency when conducting background investigations?
How do you stay updated on relevant laws and regulations regarding background investigations?
How do you handle confidential information obtained during background investigations?
Describe a time when you had to explain the results of a background investigation to an employer.
What strategies do you use to remain organized when conducting multiple background investigations?

Common Tools in Industry

Background Check Software. This software can be used to search through public records, criminal databases, and other sources to quickly and accurately verify an individual's past. (e. g. LexisNexis Background Check)
Criminal Database Search. This tool searches for criminal records in a variety of databases, including state and federal records. (e. g. Accurint)
Interview Tool. This tool helps investigators to ask questions in a structured way, making it easier to report the results in a consistent manner. (e. g. Interview Builder)
Document Review Software. This software can be used to review large amounts of documents quickly and accurately. (e. g. CaseMap)
Social Media Analytics Tool. This tool can be used to analyze a person's social media activity, providing valuable insights into their background. (e. g. SocialCatalyst)
Online Research Tool. This tool can be used for research, such as searching for public records and court documents, as well as searching for news and other online content relevant to the investigation. (e. g. Webhose)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS)
National Association of Professional Background Screeners (NAPBS)
National Association of Security Professionals (NASP)
International Association for Identification (IAI)
National Association of Private Investigators (NAPI)
National Council of Investigation and Security Services (NCISS)
International Security Management Association (ISMA)
American Board for Certification in Homeland Security (ABCHS)
International Association of Professional Security Consultants (IAPSC)
Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE)

We also have Intelligence Analyst/Investigator, Loss Prevention Investigator, and Litigation Support Investigator jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Investigative Report. A document containing the findings of an investigation, typically conducted by a private investigator or law enforcement agency.
Background Check. A process of gathering information about an individual or organization, often prior to making a decision or taking a specific action.
Surveillance. The act of monitoring an individual or group in order to obtain information.
Interview. A conversation between two or more people, typically conducted to collect information.
Evidence. Physical or circumstantial proof of a fact or event, such as documents, photographs or witness testimony.
Subpoena. A court order directing a person to appear in court and provide testimony or documents related to a legal case.
Evidence Collection. The process of obtaining physical, documentary or other forms of evidence for use in an investigation or legal proceeding.
Database. A structured collection of data, typically stored electronically and accessible via a computer.
Court Records. Documents and other records related to criminal and civil proceedings held in court.
Alibi. Evidence that an accused person was not present when the alleged crime was committed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Background Investigator?

A Background Investigator is a professional who conducts thorough investigations of individuals to verify their identity and assess their suitability for positions that require trustworthiness.

What type of information does a Background Investigator collect?

A Background Investigator generally collects information such as personal data, employment history, criminal records, education credentials, financial records, and references.

What are the qualifications to become a Background Investigator?

Generally, Background Investigators must possess a minimum of a Bachelor's degree in criminal justice or a related field, and have at least two years of experience in the investigative field.

How long does a typical Background Investigation take?

The length of a Background Investigation depends on the complexity of the case and the amount of records that need to be reviewed. Generally, it can take anywhere from one to three months to complete.